Sifting through all the information coming from the government during this time of COVID-19 can be a daunting exercise. To help out, provided here is a summary of all the programs available and a link the details of the programs.
Below is a link to the bilingual webpage where all these programs are explained in detail.
The link directs you to a French cover page “À Quoi J’ai Droit.” To access the information on the programs, choose “Voir tous les programmes,” then choose your language preference in the top right-hand corner of each program.
Here is a summary of some of the programs listed:
– Child benefit increase: an extra $300 added to the scheduled May payment. No need to apply if already enrolled in program.
– Goods and Services Tax Credit for law and modest income families. A one-time special payment. If you are eligible, this will be automatic.
– Extra time to file income tax returns. For individuals, the return filing due date is deferred to June 1, 2020.
– Mortgage Support offered by banks on a case-by-case basis. Contact your financial institution for further assistance.
Support for individuals facing unemployment:
– CERB: The Canada Emergency Response Benefit consists of $2000 per month for four months for eligible workers who have lost their income due to COVID-19. Applications may be made online starting April 6.
– Employment Insurance and Leave.
Other Support:
– Indigenous Community Support Fund to address immediate needs
– Support for people experiencing homelessness
– Support for Women’s Shelters and Sexual Assault Centers
– Support for seniors: Reduction of the minimum withdrawal for RRIFs. Practical help can be accessed through the United Way.
– Support for students and recent graduates: Canada Student Loans Relief is a six-month interest-free moratorium on repayment of Canada Student Loans. No need to apply.
– Support for youth: Mental health support through Kid’s Help Phone
For Employers:
– Extension of the Work-sharing program
– The Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy covers 75% of salaries for qualifying businesses for up to three months, retroactive to March 15, 2020
– Access to Credit: Programs were set roll out three weeks after March 27 – contact your financial institution
– Support for farmers: Increasing credit available
– Income tax for amount owing on or after March 18 and before September 2020: Payment deferred to August 31, 2020. No interest charged.
– Deferral of Sales Tax Remittance and Customs Duty Payments
– Financial assistance for small and large companies (PACTE)
– Support for entrepreneurs impacted by Covid-19 (BDE)